LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Attorney General Dana Nessel is continuing her crackdown against businesses that are price-gouging over coronavirus fears.
The latest entity to come under fire is Menards. Nessel says that the Attorney General’s office received 18 complaints from consumers about face masks, bleach and other products being sold at high prices.
Complaints about Menards were received beginning early last week, including one from a customer at the South Haven location.
As a result, the Michigan Department of Attorney General sent a cease and desist letter to Menards today in response to those complaints.
“Big box stores are not immune to the Michigan Consumer Protection Act or the Governor’s Executive Order,” Nessel said in a statement. “Large corporations must also play by the rules, and my office will work diligently to ensure this state’s consumers are treated fairly and not abused by businesses seeking to unlawfully jack prices up to line their pockets with profits at the expense of the public during this time of great need.”
Menards now has 10 days to respond to the letter under threat of further investigation and possible legal action. However, both parties can also agree to an “assurance of voluntary compliance.”
As a result of increased consumer complaints, hours of operation for the Consumer Protection intake team have been extended, making phonelines available until 11 p.m. Normally, the phone lines are open until 4:30 p.m.
Around 363 complaints have been received, most of which have been filed since last Friday. Nessel said that a full up-to-date number is unavailable at this time.
The news of this development comes after Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered enhanced restrictions on price gouging.
Retailers may be in violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act if they are:
- Charging the consumer a price that is grossly in excess of the price at which similar property or services are sold; and
- Causing coercion and duress as the result of the time and nature of a sales presentation.
Michigan residents should report any violation of the Consumer Protection Act online or by calling 877-765-8388.
